Virgil Blackman

Virgil W. Blackman, 88, of Aledo, died Tuesday, May 22, 2012 at Mercer County Nursing Home where he had been a resident for the past 6 months. Graveside services will be 2 p.m. Saturday, June 16, 2012 at the Aledo Cemetery. Memorials may be established in his name. Bewley Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Aledo assisted the family with arrangements.

Virgil was born in Mercer County on December 20, 1923, the son of Byron L. and Beulah Hollis Blackman. He attended Seaton School and later joined his father in the trucking business. Driving a semi was the “joy” in his life - he started at age 16 and continued for many years, going from coast to coast driving for several different trucking firms. With a purring motor, singing tires and a buddy on the C.B., he was in “high heaven” and making a living at the same time!

Survivors (and spouses) include his son, Kenny (Jan) Phillips, Moline, IL; step-daughter, Barbara Ledford, Kissimmee, FL; several grandchildren; great grandchildren; 4 sisters, Virginia Greer, Annabelle (Murle) Kell, Jennie (Dick) Maynard and Louise (Paul) Engwall, all of Aledo; and a good friend, Chuck (Nancy) Anderson, Morrison, IL. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Vera; sister, Aliene Rader and brothers, Faye C and Byron W. Blackman.